Members of the Myanmar diaspora in northern Thailand gathered at Memories of Chiang Mai on Oct. 26 to celebrate the Full Moon Day of Thadingyut by hosting a traditional Nibban Zay charity market.
The event recreated one of Myanmar’s most cherished cultural traditions, blending festive community gatherings with Buddhist merit-making and charitable giving.
Under the Nibban Zay format, organizers set up randomly numbered stalls across the venue, allowing attendees to draw raffle tickets to redeem free traditional foods, festive snacks, and household essentials.
Nearly 30 donors contributed to the festival, providing approximately 2,000 food items and household gifts for displaced compatriots, migrant workers, and students living in exile in northern Thailand.
Highlighting the warm turnout and community solidarity, event organizer Moe Kyi stated: “Nearly 30 donors participated, contributing around 2,000 food items and gifts. A large crowd came to join, celebrating peacefully and joyfully together.”
The initiative received strong backing from local Myanmar-owned businesses in Chiang Mai, including handicraft shop Ochityar, located at the venue, which contributed more than 100 handmade gifts such as cotton purses, handkerchiefs, and custom T-shirts.
Reflecting on the emotional resonance of the gathering, Ochityar owner Zarli shared: “Honestly, it’s the first time in a while I’ve felt this truly happy. Seeing so many people queuing up, receiving their Nibban Zay cards, and sharing food together was wonderful.”
Alongside the charity stalls, the celebration featured live music and traditional Shan cultural dance performances, providing displaced citizens with an emotional and joyful connection to home during a major national holiday away from Myanmar.
